Hale appeals

Kilkenny City have called on the FAI to postpone tomorrow night's cup quarter-final replay against Finn Harps at Ballybofey

Kilkenny City have called on the FAI to postpone tomorrow night's cup quarter-final replay against Finn Harps at Ballybofey. After Saturday's thrilling draw, Kilkenny feel they will be unable to do themselves or the competition justice if the replay goes ahead so quickly.

"We are not in a position to fulfil the fixture," said Kilkenny boss Alfie Hale last night. "We simply haven't enough fit players."

The Kilkenny boss criticised the authorities for fixing the game so quickly after Saturday's epic encounter.

"What is the rush," he asked. "Having a replay within 72 hours is not showing much respect for the players, or a great competition like the FAI Cup."

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Kilkenny had five players unavailable on Saturday: Robbie Walsh, Kevin Kelly, Paul Cashin, Aidan Cooney and Gerry Goodwin were out and will be unavailable tomorrow. Also, team captain Brendan Rea and Richie Hale picked up injuries on Saturday and may not be available. Finally, striker Michael Reddy will be away on international duty with the Irish Under-18 team.

"Even a one day delay would help us, because it would leave the way clear for Reddy to play," Hale explained.